Coptic leader declines to join in Egypt's 'national dialogue'
December 11, 2012
Coptic Orthodox Pope Tawadros II has declined an invitation from Egypt's President Mohammed Morsi to join in a "national dialogue," explaining that the Church is not a political institution.
President Morsi, whose move to assume sweeping new powers has provoked strong opposition, evidently wished to enlist Coptic leaders in his bid to negotiate a response to the country's political crisis.
Pope Tawadros replied that the proper role of the Orthodox Church is to pray for Egypt, and leave political bargains to political officials.
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Further information:
- Egypt: Coptic Pope dodges President Mursi's trap (Vatican Insider)
- Coptic pope threatens to withdraw representatives from assembly over Sharia provision (CWN, 11/15)
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